Size: 8 to 11 inchesWeight: 8 to 10 poundsAccepted Colors: Parti-color or white with patches of any color.Coat: Long, fine and silky.Grooming: No special grooming. The coat is not cut.Origins: EuropeRegistration: FCI, AKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, UKCGroup: ToyNotes: Papillon is the French word for butterfly.

Also called the Continental Toy Spaniel, the Papillon has a long and illustrious European heritage. Europeans utilized these pint sized dogs to catch rats and rabbits. Popular in Renaissance Spain and Italy, where it was known as the Dwarf Spaniel or the Squirrel Spaniel, the breed was later perfected in France and became the Papillon we know today.

This adorable little spitfire can have either erect ears or drooped ears. Dogs with droop ears are known as Phalene Papillons. Energetic, charming, and loyal, this pocket pet will win your heart.

The Papillon is often described as "a big dog in a small dog's body." Highly intelligent and very athletic, this toy breed acts much more like a big dog than their likewise sized counterparts. They love long walks and have good stamina for their small size. They also do very well with agility, and are highly trainable. While they don't require a lot of exercise, care needs to be take if they're left in the backyard. Because of their curiousness and small size, any small gap in the fence can inspire them to escape and search for adventure!

The personality of this breed is top notch. They are very intelligent, sweet, and kind. They are not usually nervous or fearful like other toy breeds. They are both lively and dignified, outgoing and stately. They love to be cuddled and love playing outdoors. You get it all with this breed!

The Papillon's coat requires little grooming, and they shed very little. Usually one quick brush per day is all that is needed to keep out knots.